The Superior Express -

Thaddeus J. Hinkle, a member of the Mankato community, helps with the Ute theater and many school activities. He was born in Nevada, Mo. Growing up he lived in El Dorado Springs, Mo., but moved around a lot as his father was a minister. He went to high school in Macomb, Ill., where he graduated.

After graduation, Thad moved to Manhattan, Kan., where he worked on a dual degree at K-State and Manhattan Christian College. Originally he aspired to get a degree in physics, but after three years of working on his dual degree, Thad believed it wasn’t his calling. He changed degrees to pastoral ministries. His four-year degree took seven years to obtain because he changed majors.

During his last year of his college, on weekends he preached at different churches. He came to Mankato three or four Sundays before he was offered a full-time position at the Mankato Christian Church in 1983. After graduation, he moved to Mankato in 1984.

Thad has many hobbies including reading, movies and school activities. He was in theater in college so enjoys helping with the school play. He also works with several other school activities. When he started to look for a computer, he realized he couldn’t afford one so he built his own. He has enjoyed working on computers ever since.

When asked what he does for relaxation, Thad said, “Sometimes relaxing just means doing nothing or rather meditating.”

Thad has noticed many people say they don’t like Mankato. He believes those who don’t like small towns want to be served or entertained, while those who like to serve and entertain thrive in any environment, including small towns.